My first regular season game took place at home Oct 9. It was the first game in the Greek Cup series.

In the Greek Cup, the format is single elimination and you must win four straight games to take the championship. This year, the tournament runs for the full second week of October. 

It was nice to finally experience the home atmosphere of Galatsi Arena at the Olympic Hall. Though the crowd was nowhere near capacity in the spacious arena, the Europeans certainly know how to make noise. With everyone chanting and singing, the environment of the crowd of about 1,500 seemed more like a capacity crowd at some gyms in college. 

In Greece, the favorite sport is obviously football (soccer), as is true in most of Europe. However, they are big fans of basketball here and if AEK can keep winning, I am sure the crowds will come. And, judging by the loudness last night, I am sure a capacity crowd of about 6,000 sounds more like 20,000. 

Our team really has started to pull together over the past week and we certainly proved it in our first game. During the preseason, you could tell that people all had individual talent, but the chemistry was not there quite yet. 

I think everyone on the team knew it would come; it was just a matter of how soon. Fortunately for us, it was there last night and now I hope it will continue to last throughout the season. 

One major difference at the pro level is that the team can change so dramatically every year. AEK is an almost entirely different roster than it was last year. I believe there are only three returning players on AEK this year. 

That poses a big challenge for this team, especially considering the success they achieved last year. I think that once the season gets going, our team will be fine and we will play to our fullest ability. 

That's it for now in my world. So long from Greece!

Former University of Vermont standout Taylor Coppenrath of West Barnet is playing his first pro season with AEK of Athens, Greece.  Through 13 games, he is averaging 21 minutes, 9.1 points and 4.1 rebounds. He has had two 21-point games. AEK is 8-5 overall and 3-2 in the A1 league.